Spring Harp Fest - Free Family Music Festival Featuring American Blues Harmonica

Since 1999, the Spring Harp Fest has introduced local musicians and music lovers to the great American art of Blues Harmonica. The unique once-yearly showcase includes local jams, competition among unknown players, and some of the best professional players in the music scene.

Guests are encouraged to bring their mouth harps (harmonicas), hula hoops, cameras, bubbles, and dancing shoes, and enjoy the beauty of Harry Griffen Park while the music plays. Food will be available for purchase at the event. Locals who want to test their prowess can even compete to earn the title of “Best of the Unknown Players,” selected through audience applause during the 2 p.m. jam.

The festival performances start and end with collaborative jams among featured musicians.

Performers include Steve Bulger, Silver Kings with Mark Bukich, Ass Pocket Whiskey Fellas, Harmonica John, Billy Watson, Chris Fast, and Kyle Rowland.

The Spring Harp Fest raises money to benefit music education in San Diego County. With help from donors, its volunteer organizers have purchased more than 5,000 harmonicas for local school music programs, and annually help fund the free Blues Music Summer Camps.